Downstate Beats Upstate, 41-7, in Classic

For the second straight season, Downstate rang victorious in the New York State High School Football Classic, beating Upstate, 41-7, at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse Sunday afternoon.

Downstate, comprised of athletes from Long Island and New York City, was aided by Sachem North's Jesse Scanna and James Thompson.

"There was nothing like going out there and playing again," said Thompson, who will play college football at Southern Connecticut. "I had a great time playing and making new friendships that will last for the rest of my career and my life."

Sachem coach Dave Falco was on the sidelines helping with player organization for Downstate. He is a board member of the New York State Football Coaches Association, the sponsor of the event.

Both years Sachem has had multiple players perform in the game. Last year Davon Lawrence (Stony Brook) and Joe Kirchner (Cortland) made the trip.

Scanna and Thompson will play in the Empire Challenge all-star game at Hofstra on June 21 as well. Practices for that begin this week at Sachem North.

Sachem Patch will post updates on Scanna and Thompson's performances when possible.